Winter Shoreline Stroll - Massachusetts
Winter Shoreline Stroll - Massachusetts
February 21, 2026 — 10:00 am - 4:00 pm ET Rain date: February 22, 2026
Last day to register: February 19, 2026
Layer up and grab some microspikes—it's time for a winter stroll! We’ll all walk together on this wide, flat trail so we can enjoy each other’s company and appreciate the expansive views of the Quabbin Reservoir. We can talk of the nearby ghost towns and maybe spot an eagle or loons! Get out of the house and enjoy the warmth of queer community with Amy and Sam on a long relaxed stroll.
While this hike is listed at six miles, that is the maximum length we intend to walk. The route is more or less flat and if conditions are good, participants may be surprised to find that it doesn’t feel that long. However, this event is more about spending time together than reaching a destination.
We will prioritize the comfort and safety of those walking and may turn around earlier depending on conditions and how folks are feeling. We always hike to the pace of the slowest person.
Even a stroll in the winter requires more preparation than a hike in warmer weather. Please plan to wear appropriate winter attire to keep yourself comfortable in the cold, and know that snow, ice, and wind could make this walk more challenging than it would otherwise be. There are no bathrooms at this trailhead.
We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.
GENERAL INFO
Location: New Salem MA area (Nipmuc land)
Parking: Roadside parking. There are no accessible parking spots. No bathrooms are available at the trailhead.
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that furry friends who are not service animals stay at home for this adventure. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: February 21, 2026
Hike: 4.5 miles, 120ft elevation gain
Cost: This event is completely free to access! We welcome donations of any amount, which help us continue to provide these programs. We appreciate your support and your contribution!
Bring: Warm layers appropriate for winter (synthetics or wool recommended), comfortable winter walking shoes or boots, hat, gloves/mittens, water, lunch, microspikes if you have them (we'll have a few extras), trekking poles if needed.
COVID SAFETY
Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.
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Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.